New Human Readings (High School Volume 2)

Author: Cao Wenxuan, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: This book is a distinctive collection among similar reading materials. One of its unique features is its emphasis on exquisite contemporary essays, complemented by some classic literary works. It also rarely includes repetitive literary selections. When compiling a humanities reading collection, people often prioritize intellectual and moral education while neglecting aesthetic and emotional education. The texts selected in this book not only consider the concept of "humanities" but also pay attention to the aspect of "language and literature." Many of the selected articles offer profound insights into language and literature. These texts will guide readers in understanding what constitutes an article, what makes a great article, how to approach writing, and how to narrate and analyze the world. The term "humanities" in this context carries rich and broad connotations, representing a comprehensive concept of humanities. Each unit in the book includes 5–6 articles, with the first two being intensive reading texts and the remaining 3–4 being extensive reading texts. For the intensive reading texts, we have designed a "Pre-Reading Prediction" before each article to create a sense of anticipation among students, helping them enter the reading process with curiosity. Additionally, we have provided marginal notes for the first two articles in each unit to assist students in thinking critically while reading, broadening their perspectives, and fostering a habit of inquiry. Whether for intensive or extensive reading texts, we have included thought-provoking questions and exercises at the end of each article (with specific titles for each grade level: "Humanities Thinking and Life Practice" for primary school, "Humanities Thinking and Writing Design" for junior high school, and "Humanities Thinking and Understanding Exploration" for high school). Furthermore, each unit features a separate "Humanities Writing Practice" to help students engage in deeper reflection and practical exercises after reading, strengthening the connection between reading, writing, and life, making the reading experience more meaningful. The articles selected for The New Humanities Reader are filled with many heart-stirring and profound meanings. Stories of love that create miracles, the transparent and pure sky of innocent hearts, the warmth of virtue that nurtures humanity, the calm and composed resilience in the face of adversity, the fascinating and colorful landscapes of nature, and the vast and far-reaching prospects of science and technology—all these texts radiate a fragrant humanistic aura, embodying a deep humanistic foundation that is captivating and thought-provoking. Beautiful literature is like tea—its fragrance becomes more intense with each sip; it is like a spring—its clarity deepens with each taste; it is like the ocean—its depth grows with each exploration; it is like a song—its charm unfolds with each listen. Approach The New Humanities Reader with a heart full of openness and read with emotion. In the process of being moved, you will discover that you have transformed from a cocoon into a butterfly, fluttering gracefully under the blue sky and within your soul. And in that moment, you too will become the most beautiful.